Hepatitis A is a very contagious disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis A virus.

What is Hepatitis A?

Hepatitis A is a very contagious disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A virus is found in the bowel movements (stool) of people infected with the virus.

How is Hepatitis A spread?

Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food and water or through close contact with an infected person.

What are the symptoms of Hepatitis A?

Symptoms are often mild, especially in children. Common symptoms include:

Fever

Tiredness

Stomach ache

Nausea

Yellow skin or eyes

What are the risks of Hepatitis A?

Most people recover from Hepatitis A disease. For every 1,000 people infected, one to three will die. The death rate is higher in people over 50 years of age.

How can I prevent getting Hepatitis A?

The best way to not get Hepatitis A is to get immunized. The Hepatitis A vaccine is safe. It is much safer to get the vaccine than to get the disease. When you get immunized you help to protect others as well.